How to Explore Oktoberfest in La Crosse

At Oktoberfest in La Crosse, one of the most popular festivals of its kind in the nation, you won’t be able to tell if you’re in Munich or Wisconsin. With parades, authentic German food and drink, carnival rides, and a wide range of entertainment options, this festival has definitely earned a spot on our “do not miss” list!

Oktoberfest in La Crosse

Held annually at the end of September/early October, Oktoberfest in La Crosse is one of the best Oktoberfests outside of Germany. This large festival hosts crowds of over 150,000, with a full weekend of food, drink, and entertainment for the whole family.

Oktoberfest Events

You’ll find lots to explore when you’re visiting Oktoberfest in La Crosse. Here are some of the highlights.

Parades

At the La Crosse Oktoberfest, a “torchlight parade” kicks off the celebrations on Thursday evening. Homes along the parade route are lit up, along with illuminated parade floats and displays.

Then, on Saturday morning, the Maple Leaf Parade draws tens of thousands. This two-mile crowd-pleasing event is spectacular and a family favorite. Click here for more information on routes and times.

Craft Beer Night

More than fifty breweries will be featured in this one-night only event. Tickets tend to sell out, so be sure you order in advance if you plan on partaking in Craft Beer Night!

Authentic German Dinner

Live polka music will serenade you as you devour your delicious dinner of Sauerbraten, Spaetzle, Braised Red Cabbage, and German Apple Cake, provided by Pogy’s Catering. Buy your ticket early to be in the first one hundred and get an Oktoberfest beer mug!

Maple Leaf Walk Run

To burn off some of the calories from German beer, enter the Maple Leaf Walk Run! You can participate in a half marathon, five-mile run, or 5K walk/run. And keep the kiddos burning energy with the Maple Mile Fun Run.

Oktoberfest Details

Keep an eye on the Oktoberfest Facebook page to find out more about food/drink vendors and entertainers. They will be keeping the energy high and the fun rolling! Find out more details about tickets here, along with some other great information.

Oktoberfest at Westby House Inn

After enjoying the authentic German eats and drinks of Oktoberfest in La Crosse, take a short drive to our Westby, WI, bed and breakfast. Ourbeautiful roomsare luxuriously appointed and comfortable, giving you the rest you need to continue to enjoy the Driftless area. And our delicious gourmet breakfastwill energize and refresh you for wherever your travels are taking you.

We know you’ll enjoy all that we and the Driftless area have to offer, so be sure to download our complimentary Vacation Guide to find out more! Our inn will book quickly for this weekend, so reserve your favorite bed today! We know you’ll have a great time at Oktoberfest in La Crosse, and we hope to see you then!